Treatment of Dementia-related Symptoms with Japanese Traditional Medicine (Kampo): A Review of Clinical Studies

Abstract

Japanese traditional medicine (Kampo) was the main medical treatment in Japan from the 6th century until Western medicine was introduced from Europe several hundred years ago, and it had been developed to treat all kinds of human diseases. Recently, Kampo has received renewed attention because it provides a valid alternative for treating symptoms refractory to modern conventional medicine. Some Kampo formulas have accumulated clinical evidence for their effectiveness, especially in postoperative bowel dysfunction, functional dyspepsia, and dementia. This article reviews clinical studies showing evidence for the efficacy of Kampo formulas in treating dementia-related symptoms.